We in the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Ohio recognize the biblical obligation that each person in our diocese is responsible for their neighbor. As Episcopalians, we have an enduring commitment to work for and support health care for all people as a shared endeavored. God continues to call us to work in society for the individual, collective actions that promote health and ensure care for those who suffer. We seek to participate in and supplement health care services for all people who are in need. As stated in Luke 10.27 states "... love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as your self".
Accepting health care as a share endeavor requires commitment of all people to the well being of their neighbor and themselves. By Episcopalians joining together they can bring their gifts, work together in integrated ways and share ideas and experiences. They can meet one another in community to work for a just social system and for peace and integrity of creation and health.
In Titus 3:14 it is stated "And let people learn to devote themselves to good works in order to meet urgent needs...". There are many kinds and types of activities that can be done individually, as a congregation or at a diocesan level. Here are a few of them:
God wants wholeness and salvation for each individual. As Christians, our task is to use whatever means possible to bring wholeness and health. Christians are called to understand health, healing and wholeness as a portion of their faith responsibility. Individually and corporately, we are to celebrate and give thanks for God's love for us and for all people. As we respond to this love we unite together as a justice seeking, compassionate and healing community. Justice is fair distribution of benefits and burdens of health care as Ezekiel 18:16 states "...as not to oppress anyone, give bread to the hungry and cover the naked with a garment".
Health ministry in a local congregation is an intentional ministry focusing on both healing and health, combining the ancient traditions of the Christian community and the knowledge and tools of modern health care.
The Episcopal Diocese of Ohio
